CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY EIGHT – THE GRUFF NEIGHBOUR

Over the next hour, Joan walked around the shop, making suggestions. She showed Giovanni how to create more appealing window displays, rearrange the shelves for better browsing, and even gave him tips on using social media to attract younger customers. As they worked, Giovanni's hostility gradually softened. By the time they finished, he was nodding along with Joan's ideas, a thoughtful look on his face. "You know," he said gruffly, "some of these aren't half bad." Joan smiled. "Thank you. I hope this shows you that I'm here to contribute, not to cause problems." Giovanni rubbed his chin. "Maybe I was... hasty in my judgment." "Does this mean you'll stop spreading rumors?" Joan asked hopefully. Giovanni sighed. "Alright, alright. I'll keep my thoughts to myself from now on." As Joan turned to leave, Giovanni called out, "Hey, uh... thanks. For the help." Joan nodded, a weight lifting from her shoulders. "Anytime, Giovanni." When she returned to Maria's shop, the older woman wa